‘A conclusion of lawful killing made by a coroner’s court meant that a death was recognised as one that would amount to the crime of murder, manslaughter or infanticide but for the presence of an additional factor which justified it.’

“This circular describes the intended purpose of changes to the law on the use of force in self defence in the Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012 and the Crime and Courts Bill and outlines the arrangements for their commencement.”

“What happens when a burglary victim fights back and kills an intruder? The Justice Secretary Chris Grayling wants to change the law, to ensure such home owners are treated as victims, not perpetrators of crime – but does the law really need changing?”

“We have commented before on the dilemma of householders defending their property. Another incident is in the news yesterday: a remote dwelling being the scene where Mr Andy Ferrie shot at four burglars. He called the police, and with his wife has been arrested under suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm. The burglars, two of whom were injured, have been arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary.”